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Vitamin D is making new inroads with health care providers around the world.  It has been known for years that Vitamin D is needed to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus, aids in cell differentiation, boosts immunity, has a role in insulin secretion, and regulates blood pressure.  However, recent research suggests that Vitamin D may provide protection from osteoporosis, cancer, Autism, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis giving Vitamin D a new reputation as a "Mighty Vitty."

There are several forms of Vitamin D with two being important to humans.  Ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) which is synthesized by plants and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) which is synthesized by humans in the skin when exposed to ultraviolet-B (UVB) rays from sunlight.  Vitamin D is included in most multivitamins.  The Adequate Intake (AI) levels have been established by the U.S. Institute of Medicine of the Nationa Academy of Sciences.  Recommendations are: 5 micrograms (200 IU or International Units) daily for all individuals (male, female, pregnant/lactating women) under the age of 50 years-old; 10 micrograms daily (400 IU) for all individuals from 50-70 years-old; and 15 micrograms daily (660 IU) for all individuals 70 years-old and greater.  Numerous authors have questioned whether the current recommended adequate intake levels are sufficient to meet physiological needs, particularly for individuals deprived of regular sun exposure.  The upper limit (UL) for Vitamin D has been recommended as 2,000 IU daily due to toxicities that can occur when taken in higher doses.  Vitamin D can react negatively to certain medications.  Always seek advise from a qualified health care provider regarding any increase in Vitamin D intake.

The Vitamin D Council states that current research has implicated vitamin D deficiency as a major factor in the pathology of at least 17 varieties of cancer as well as heart disease, stroke, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, depression, chronic pain, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, muscle wasting, birth defects, periodontal disease, and fatigue.

Knowing your Vitamin D blood serum level is important.  The 25-hydroxy vitamin D test is the most accurate way to measure how much vitamin D is in your body. The normal range is 30.0 to 74.0 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

If your lab result show that you are suffering from vitamin D deficiency you need to be under the care of a knowledgeable physician. Your physician will need to replete your vitamin D system with sunlight, artificial light, foods rich in vitamin D, oral vitamin D, or a combination of these treatments.

Finally, don't assume that because you live in the Southwest you are getting enough sunlight exposure to keep your Vitamin D levels in the normal range. The promotion of sunscreen, which is a daily must, reduces UVB exposure to the skin. Thus, reducing the body's ability to produce Vitamin D3. Get your Vitamin D levels checked the next time you see your health care provider and make sure this "Mighty Vitty" is working for you.

Take care and be healthy,

Kimberley